Michigan Kicks Off Youth Gambling Prevention Campaign

(AsiaGameHub) –   Michigan regulators have introduced a new youth gambling prevention campaign targeting schools, families, coaches, and community groups statewide.

Good to Know

• The Michigan Gaming Control Board launched Don’t Bet on Your Future to warn young people about underage gambling risks.
• Youth booster programs can receive up to $4,000 for approved anti-gambling advocacy.
• A new grant program will support gambling education in schools, colleges, and local organizations.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board is expanding its responsible gambling outreach into youth sports, classrooms, and local communities through the Don’t Bet on Your Future initiative, a statewide effort focused on preventing underage gambling.

This campaign builds upon the earlier Don’t Regret the Bet program, which addressed responsible gambling for adults. In contrast, Don’t Bet on Your Future specifically targets children and teenagers who are increasingly exposed to sports betting, online casino platforms, and broader gambling advertisements.

In Michigan, online sports betting and online casino gaming are permitted only for individuals aged 21 or older. Certain land-based tribal casinos allow entry at age 18 or older, but the MGCB maintains that gambling must be strictly reserved for adults.

MGCB Enhances Youth Gambling Prevention With Funding And TV Ads

A new television advertisement is now part of the campaign. The commercial features a teenager attempting to place a bet on a phone, only to be confronted by messages discouraging such behavior, ultimately ending with the Don’t Bet on Your Future slogan.

The MGCB is also providing financial support for local prevention efforts. Youth booster programs may apply for up to $4,000 to promote MGCB-approved messages about the dangers of underage gambling. These messages can be shared via social media, school newsletters, scoreboards, and event programs.

Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB, linked the campaign to growing concerns about gambling exposure among young people. He stated:

“According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, nearly two-thirds of American adults report having gambled before the age of 21 – and young people in Michigan are no exception. Don’t Bet on Your Future aims to create a statewide network of education and prevention involving schools, coaches, parents, and neighborhoods.

We are dedicated to ensuring the next generation understands the serious risks of gambling before they ever make their first bet.”

Additional funding will be available through the Gambling Education and Prevent Grant Program. Schools, colleges, and community organizations can submit applications before the upcoming school year. Approved initiatives will receive grants to develop educational content covering Michigan gambling laws, problem gambling, mental health impacts, financial harm, and available support resources.